NC House Unveils Proposed $20.57 Billion Budget

Raleigh, NC -- The State House released its $20.57 billion budget proposal on Sunday night.

According to a news release sent from the Office of the Speaker, the budget includes less spending than the proposed budget from Gov. Pat McCrory and lawmakers in the Senate.

The North Carolina House Representatives said the budget will protect core services of government while changing the focus to creating jobs and boosting the economy.

"Two years ago, we crafted a budget that addressed a multi-billion dollar deficit, reduced state spending, and cut taxes by more than a billion dollars," said House Speaker Thom Tillis (R-Mecklenburg). "Because of those sound decisions, our financial footing is more stable, and we have been able to craft a fiscally responsible and economically sustainable budget for North Carolina."

"The House budget proposal is realistic, reasonable, and responsible; placing North Carolina's fiscal house on a sound foundation for the future," said Rep. Nelson Dollar (R-Wake), the Senior Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. "Our plan is a common-sense approach to providing the services our citizens need in the areas of education, health care, public safety, and job development."

Inside the House budget plan, there are plans to expand technology in schools. It also includes funding for the Medicaid system.

The House budget proposal also includes the following:

prepares our state for future needs by adding $200 million to both the Savings Reserve and the Repairs & Renovations accounts, and $10 million to the Disaster Relief Reserve

provides $28 million in capital investments

fully funds the State Health Plan with a directive to find efficiencies moving forward

funds the repair, renovation and expansion of National Guard Armory facilities in NC

fully funds the State Retirement System

reorganizes and streamlines departments, making government more efficient

fully funds the Job Development & Investment Grant (JDIG)

provides compensation for living victims of the state-sponsored Eugenics program